Back to School: College Checklist

We know that college prep is stressful for everyone. And with move-in day quickly approaching, there’s little time to figure out everything you need. So we’ve put together a comprehensive list of college living essentials to help save time (and stay stress-free!) throughout the planning process.

BEDDING

Remember to contact the school to check what size bed is provided (or if beds are provided!) to ensure you have all the right materials. Many campuses supply Twin XL beds and mattresses as opposed to standard Twins so be careful when shopping for bedding. In addition, mattress pads are always a great idea for those not-so-soft dorm beds.

Comforter*

Sheet Sets (2-3)*

Pillows (2-3)

Mattress Protector

Mattress Pad

ORGANIZATION

(Photo Credit: Pinterest)

Vertical space is your best friend when trying to squeeze everything into a tiny dorm room. Bed risers like these are a great option (if your bed is not already lifted) along with lots of underbed storage containers to keep everything organized.

Underbed Storage Bins

Bed Risers

Over-the-door Organizer

Hangers

Drawer & Shelf Organizers

Clip-on Bedside Organizer

SCHOOL SUPPLIES

Whether you pick them up now or wait until you get to school to save valuable travel space, make sure you don’t forget these essential items! Textbooks are generally sold on campus, but many websites like Amazon or Chegg have great deals for popular books.

Backpack

Calendar

Sticky Notes

Pens & Pencils

Portfolio (for career fairs and interviews)

Planner

Notebooks

Binders

Index Cards

Stapler

Hole Puncher

Paper Clips

Scissors

Tape

Envelopes

Stamps

Calculator*

Clicker*

Desk & Chair*

Desk Lamp*

LAUNDRY

Learning how to do laundry for the first time can be a daunting task, but don’t worry—we have tips for teaching your kids laundry basics here, and our convenient unit-dose products are foolproof. Don't forget to bring plenty of quarters for the machines!

CLEANING

General cleaning supplies are great for those “weekly” (ahem, pre-parents weekend) cleaning sprees. We know that most college kids won’t be jumping at the chance to clean their dorm or apartment, but they’ll definitely thank you after they realize just how good a clean room feels.

All-Purpose Cleaner

Hand Duster

Vaccuum

Broom & Dustpan

Trash Can & Bags

Glass Cleaner

Paper Towels

ELECTRONICS

One of the biggest differences between high school and college is the ability—and expectation—for kids to use laptops for classes. Whether they prefer Mac, PC, or even a tablet, Best Buy has some great options for everyone. And remind them to have a couple of flashdrives on hand for easy access to all of their work.

Laptop & Accessories

Surge Protector

Extension Cord

Flashdrives

Headphones (2)

Cell Phone & Accessories

Alarm Clock

Ethernet Cable*

HDMI Cable*

TV*

DVD/BluRay Player

BATH

When it comes to dorm bathrooms, shower shoes (or even just a pair of plastic flip flops) are a must. And shower caddies like this adorable one will keep your kid from juggling every hair product, soap, etc. with every trip to the shower. Just be sure that they dry it thoroughly after each use!

Shower Caddy

Shower Shoes

Towels (3-4)

Washcloths (4-5)

Loofahs (3-4)

Toothbrush

KITCHEN

Even if your teenager’s dorm does not have a kitchen, they’ll still use things like cups, cereal bowls, and plates, so a small stash of dishware will really come in handy for those lazy Sundays or snacks between classes. In addition, be sure to confirm which appliances (if any) are provided, and which are allowed.

Dishware (plates, bowls, cups, etc.)

Utensils

Reusable Water Bottle

Travel Mug

Filtered Water Pitcher

Ice Trays

Storage Bags & Containers

Microwave*

Hot Plate*

Mini Fridge*

DECORATIONS

Get creative with decorations! Pictures of family and friends are perfect additions of home to your teen’s new space. Some other popular decorations are fun lighting, wall decals, posters, bulletin boards, and more!

Pictures

Picture Frames

Wall Art*

Adhesive Hooks

Rug

MISCELLANEOUS

And for those unexpected moments like a power outage or even a head cold…

Medication (prescription & general over-the-counter)

Earplugs

Playing Cards

Ice Packs

First Aid Kit

Sewing Kit

Tool Kit

Emergency Lamp/Flashlight

Umbrella

*Check with the school or landlord to see what is provided, what is necessary, and what is allowed according to safety regulations.

Some of our favorite places to find these back to school necessities are…